When it comes to Internet providers in the United States, we have choices.

No matter where we live, there’s a company that can provide the Internet access we need. Whether you download tons of files and play online games, or you’re online just to check email and keep up with sports score, you can find a company that gives you just what you need.

Some Internet service providers give you options to bundle your plan with other services, such as cable television and home phone, too. To find the best fit for your needs, ask questions, and conduct a little research of your own.
The more informed you are, the better prepared you are to make the right choice. Here’s what to ask when you look for an Internet service provider, followed by our top 5 list, overall.

50Mbps plus Best for: Image and video upload, P2P sites for gaming, multiple devices.Not recommended for: Any use less than this. These speeds come at a steeper price, and use that aligns more closely with the other four categories wouldn’t justify the cost.

How can I compare providers?

There’s a lot to consider beyond speed. City internet choices vary from those you can choose from rural locations. Do you want to try the latest Internet innovation, fiber optics? Does your local cable carrier offer service where you live? How about DSL? And what wireless options do you have with each?

There are also tools for comprehensive Internet comparisons to check out, where you can see different providers’ best offers and observe their features side by side.

Top 5 providers

5. Dish
Satellite Internet has come a long way, and ensures a faster alternative to dial-up for those who don’t live where cable and DSL are available. Dish offers a bundle of Internet, phone and TV for added savings. Dish is available anywhere in the U.S. with a clear view of the southern sky for satellite coverage.

4. Comcast
The company’s Xfinity product gives users access to movies and TV shows on any device. With Blast Plus, download at speeds of up to 50Mbps in select areas, enough to stream an entire movie. Constant Guard helps protect your devices, too. Customer service isn’t always as responsive as necessary, though.

3. Google Fiber
Netflix calls this provider “the most consistently fast ISP in America.” It’s available in a very limited market, but the download times are quick, and the high-definition TV is exceptional. If Google intends to take Fiber nationwide, it could revolutionize Internet connections. The question is, will it?

2. Cablevision
Only Google Fiber performed better in the Netflix ISP Speed Index, which compares the time it takes to stream Netflix videos. Cablevision’s availability far surpassed Google Fiber’s, though. Cablevision provides a dependable broadband and free hardware, but fees rise after the first year of service.